New garden fence regulations could cost UK homeowners up to £5,000 in fines

Changes came into force earlier this yearJames D Roger, Pete Gavan Senior Editor and James Rodger

07:40, 01 Sep 2025Updated 07:40, 01 Sep 2025

Rules around garden fences have been updated

British households are now at risk of £5,000 penalties for violating updated garden fence regulations that came into force following changes.

“The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015” has undergone significant revisions.

These amendments, which came into force in May this year, have streamlined regulations surrounding boundary replacements, hedge alterations, and new fence installations.

A legal specialist previously warned: “If you’re thinking of putting up a new garden fence this summer, there are a few important things to bear in mind to make sure you don’t break any laws and find yourself landed with a fine.”

Rear boundaries permit fencing up to two metres in height (approximately 6ft six) without requiring planning consent, reports Birmingham Live.

Without proper planning approval, your fence cannot exceed two metres from ground level.

Exceeding this limit, even with ornamental trellis work, necessitates obtaining permission beforehand.

For front-facing boundaries, fencing cannot surpass one metre when adjacent to footpaths, roads or public areas.

That equates to just over three feet in height.

Mark Andrew Woodman, Which?’s senior legal adviser, previously recommended examining property deeds to determine which residence holds primary responsibility for boundary maintenance – and making enquiries about the original installation.

Certain circumstances will also require planning consent for fencing exceeding one metre – particularly when bordering highways or highway footpaths. If you’re uncertain, it’s advisable to contact your local planning authority, typically your local council, for clarification.

Should your fence result in a statutory nuisance, such as causing flooding or blocking drains, you could be hit with penalties up to £5,000. Failure to pay these fines could even land you in court.